How Does the SideWalker® Leash Trainer Work?

Does your dog pull on the leash during walks? We have a solution – the SideWalker® Leash Trainer! The SideWalker is a unique dog training collar with a “self-teaching” design that trains your dog to walk side-by-side with you without pulling on the leash.

Are you considering trying our SideWalker Leash Trainer but wondering how exactly it works? Check out these answers to some of our Frequently Asked Questions about the SideWalker.

How does the SideWalker work?

The ‘self-teaching’ design of the SideWalker reinforces and rewards appropriate leash walking behavior. A sensor under the collar strap on the SideWalker is triggered by pressure when the dog pulls on the leash. When the sensor is activated, the dog receives either a vibration or an electronic stimulation.

The level of vibration or stimulation gradually increases as the dog pulls. The vibration or stimulation stops when the dog stops pulling. To prevent accidental or unnecessary activation (vibration or stimulation), the SideWalker does not activate at low pull pressures.

How long will it take for my dog to stop pulling?

Several variables affect how quickly your dog’s behavior will change, most notably the personality of your dog and the environment in which you are training the dog. Most dogs begin to understand the relationship between pulling and the vibration/stimulation after several activations of the collar. The pulling behavior diminishes quickly in some dogs and more gradually in others.

If there is no noticeable change in pulling behavior after a reasonable trial period, check the collar to make sure the fit is good and the contact posts are the correct size. If collar fit is appropriate and the dog continues to pull, the SideWalker setting should be increased one level.

Is there a warranty on the SideWalker?

Yes. The SideWalker Leash Trainer has a one-year warranty.

Does the SideWalker use the same batteries as a DogWatch Hidden Fence collar?

No. The SideWalker has a rechargeable battery. Battery life depends on frequency of use and the pulling behavior of the dog. The charge typically lasts several days for a collar that is worn 1-2 hours per day with low to moderate activation. The rechargeable battery life is typically several years.

How do I buy a SideWalker SW-5 Leash Trainer?

If you have any other questions about the SideWalker, check out our full FAQs here. You can also reach out to your local DogWatch Dealer or contact our Customer Service team at 800-793-3436, Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm EST. Here’s to a future filled with lots of happy walks!

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